NFL preseason 2015: Players with most to prove

Dec 21, 2014; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Jets quarterback Geno Smith (7) reacts after an incomplete pass during the third quarter against the New England Patriots at MetLife Stadium. The Patriots defeated the Jets 17-16. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /

29 of 33

Aug 16, 2014; Tampa, FL, USA; Miami Dolphins middle linebacker Dannell Ellerbe (59) calls a play against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the second quarter at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

New Orleans Saints – Dannell Ellerbe

Why is he the pick?

The Saints have all kinds of cap issues thanks to general manager Mickey Loomis refusing to understand that at some point, all of this maneuvering is going to cost the franchise a decade of being relevant. With that being taken into consideration, Loomis allowed middle linebacker Curtis Lofton to leave in free agency for the Oakland Raiders, replacing him with Dannell Ellerbe.

Ellerbe starred with the Baltimore Ravens when the won the Super Bowl in 2012 and cashed in with the Miami Dolphins, signing a five-year, $35 million deal. However, Miami was underwhelmed with his performance and dealt the inside linebacker to the Saints this offseason. Now, Ellerbe has the task of rediscovering his game and helping New Orleans get back on top of the NFC South.

What is at stake?

The Saints having a decent defense again. New Orleans’ defense was supposed to be a really good unit last year with the bombastic Rob Ryan taking over as defensive coordinator. Instead, Ryan’s defense got absolutely shredded. If Ellerbe can step into Lofton’s spot and contribute the way he did with Baltimore, this unit will be greatly improved.

Next: San Francisco 49ers

Home/NFL